One of my top goals for getting autographs through the mail was to get returns from some of the famed Brooklyn Dodgers. I have gotten an autograph from Don Zimmer. The other day, I got a return from Carl Erskine.
Erskine pitched his whole career as a Dodger. He pitched from 1948-1959. Erskine finished his career in Los Angeles in 1959 with a career win/loss record of 122-78. His ERA+ was a 102 for his career. Erskine was also a member of the famous 1955 championship Brooklyn Dodger team. He endured a lot of heartbreak during his career prior to 1955. The Dodgers lost four titles before breaking through and beating the Yanks in 1955.
Erskine was kind enough to sign a couple cards for me as well as answering some questions that I sent him. This is only the second time that a player has actually answered my questions. Him doing so made me very proud because I hold the Brooklyn teams in such high regard.
Here are the questions and answers from my letter:
Q: What was the atmosphere like at a Brooklyn Dodger vs. New York Giants game at Ebbets Field?
A: Tense. Lots of pressure in those games. Also respect for each other.
Q: What was the best game you ever pitched as a Dodger?
A: 1953 World Series Game 3. A 3-2 victory over the Yankees. Setting the World Series strike out record at 14. Mickey Mantle struck out 4 times.
Q: Who are your favorite players in today's game?
A: Pujols of the Cardinals and Kershaw of the Dodgers.
Q: What was your favorite ballpark to play in as a visitor?
A: Sportsman Park in St.Louis.
This was a great return. I love him mentioning that he struck out Mickey Mantle four times in a World Series game. I looked up the box score just to make sure and it was correct. Also, I got this letter a couple weeks ago so, obviously one of his favorite players is Pujols of Anaheim.
Thanks, Mr. Erskine!!!
3 comments:
I don't care who your favorite team is, getting something like that is amazing.
I love Mr.Erskine he's a great dude. Great TTM!!
wow - like they said - AMAZING !
thats like a special prize for any collection.
i like how erskine was humble as he didnt say "I" struck out mantle, or "I" punched out mantle...just, mantle struck out 4 times.
super cool, bro.
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